Napolitano has disputed the audit's findings. "I believe that one fundamental assertion of the audit report, that the office of the office of the president has $175 million reserve or undisclosed budget is not factually accurate. Our real reserve is $38 million," said Napolitano.

She has described the money as a modest amount set aside for unexpected expenses. Lawmakers pushed back on that theory.

"I deeply believe that the trust that has existed between the legislature and the university has been eroded," said Jose Medina, a democrat from Riverside.

"Send some of that money back to the campuses, they can use it for the students or other purposes that are important," said Howle.

The audit also found salaries within The Office of the President were higher than comparable state employees, $22 million in benefits not typical in the public sector and staffing levels higher than other public universities.